Plus Sized Jackets

Types of Jackets

What kind of jacket would you like? There are a few different styles, all suitable for different purposes or looks, including:

• Blazer
• Parka
• Windbreaker
• Fleece
• Leather

In general, jackets cover the torso and sometimes the hips, but are shorter, and mostly more lightweight, than coats.

Where to Buy Plus Sized Jackets

While shopping retailers who specialize in attire for the woman of size is always smart, you can also shop the women’s sections of many department stores for a jacket. Some stores to look into include:

• Avenue
• JC Penney
• alight
• Woman Within
• Jessica London
• Roaman’s
• Lane Bryant

Jacket Styles for Plus Size Women

For work or for casual dress, there is a jacket for any occasion. Jackets are wonderfully versatile and can add a touch of sophistication to the simplest outfit. Denim jackets are perfect for turning a casual look into something sharp.

• This metallic swing jacket can go from the office to an office party. The cropped style is very modern, while the Peter Pan collar and one-button closure recall an earlier era.
• Dark denim with western accents make this jacket perfect for coordinating a western jeans ensemble or it can be worn over a pretty floral dress.
• A big jacket like this will protect you from frosty weather in style. A soft faux fur lining and collar will keep you warm.
• Silk and a unique print make this jacket a one-of-a-kind closet staple. It can be worn over a dress or with a dressy top and slacks for a variety of looks.
• A leather jacket in soft brown can lend a bold, yet feminine look to your outfit.
• Satin makes a basic trenchcoat more than basic.
• A plush velvet blazer is perfect for your holiday ensembles. Available in rich colors such as indigo, boysenberry, chocolate or black, you may find it hard to pick just one.

What to Wear with a Jacket

• Blazers - Blazer type jackets pair well with slacks or skirts. A jacket in a neutral color such as black, brown, beige or charcoal can coordinate with many different outfits.
• Cropped jackets - These work well over tailored shirts and with chic slacks or skirts. Your overall silhouette should be close-fitted. The three-quarter length sleeves popular with these jackets are fashionably retro.
• Swing jackets - Jackets that flair out are feminine and can soften a trouser outfit nicely.
• Heavy jackets - Heavier-wear jackets such as parkas are strictly outerwear. They’re made for keeping you warm against the elements, but should be removed when coming inside. Unlike other jackets, these are more for function over form.

Plus Size Tips

In general, full figured women should keep some tips in mind when selecting plus sized jackets, either for stylish purposes or for functional cold weather wear.

• Buy your exact size – Ideally, you should try any jacket on before buying. Look at yourself in a mirror from all angles to make sure you have a good fit. Lift your arms and twist at the waist to ensure comfortable movement. Make sure your buttons close over your bust without unattractive gaping.
• Don’t buy too bulky – You don’t want your jacket to add extra pounds to your frame. Unless you live in a frigid climate where it snows much of the winter, you don’t need a jacket that bulks you up.
• Choose the most flattering shape for you: If you have a lovely waistline, jackets that belt at the waist will show that off. If you are top heavy, avoid cropped jackets and select ones that come down in a straight or A-line. For camouflaging a tummy bulge, swing jackets are a good choice.

Jacket Season

With such a wide array of jacket choices, you shouldn’t feel limited in your selection. You can have a jacket in virtually any color or cut you want, so shop early in the season and when cold weather threatens, you’ll already be outfitted in some of the most fashionable jacket styles around.